lights: turn it off

computers: let it rest

themostats: dial it right

3 easy steps to saving energy:

1. Turn it off

Flip off lights & electronics. Turn off our lights when leaving any unoccupied space, even common rooms. Reduce, unplug and shut down all electronics- both our own as well as any communal equipment not in use. Every time we flip the switch, we all breathe cleaner air, because lighting adds up to 31% of electricity used on campus.

Lighting Efficiency Upgrades:

Use a desk lamp or task lighting (with energy efficient CFL or LED bulbs), instead of using the array of harsh overhead bulbs.

2. Let it Rest

Use Computer/Printer Hibernate Settings. Set our computers, laptops, printers, copier, fax, and any other electronics to sleep/hibernate after idle for a few minutes. Be sure to use the hibernate mode (not sleep mode) for the greatest impact. Never use screen savers- just allow the screen to darken in order to save energy.

3. Dial it Down:

Cut back on heating and cooling to reduce energy loss. Temperatures should be set to 70oF in winter and 76oF in summer. Deviations should be reported to work control 410-455-2550. Bringing space heaters is not permitted (fire hazard). Keep windows and doors shut when heating or cooling is in effect. Learn more!

Almost half of the campus carbon footprint is from heating and cooling. By lowering the thermostat by 5 degrees you save 15% of energy.

Bonus: Unplug

Any device with an indicator light draws energy when plugged in. That means leaving cell phone chargers plugged in, monitors, printers copiers and fax machines all waste energy if left plugged in. If it feels warm to the touch, that shows energy is being consumed- if if the device is not being charged or used!

Another way to unplug is to get outdoors! Explore UMBC’s Green Spaces and learn how to Get Around from campus! Also check out the Healthy Retrievers’ Sleep campaign!